Macro Micro Traffic Distribution via Cell Shaping Beam Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Heterogeneous networks face challenges in efficiently distributing traffic demand between macro and micro access nodes, with micro access nodes struggling to serve a sufficient fraction of users due to power imbalances and interference issues, particularly at cell edges, where the Equivalent Isotropic Radiated Power (EIRP) of macro access nodes is higher, and appropriate Cell Range Extension (CRE) values are difficult to set for varying network configurations and traffic loads.
Innovation Solution
A network node controller adjusts cell shaping beams of macro access nodes based on current traffic load to distribute traffic between macro and micro access nodes, optimizing cell shapes and reducing interference by adjusting power and beamforming weights, thereby enabling efficient traffic distribution and capacity extension.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If Cell Range Extension (CRE) is introduced to extend micro access node coverage, then micro access node coverage range is improved, but interference of cell edge users in DL served by micro access node is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by configuring different downlink transmission power levels for different user groups within the same cell. Specifically, cell edge users are assigned a first downlink transmission power level while cell center users are assigned a second downlink transmission power level. This localized power adjustment extends coverage for cell edge users without causing excessive interference, as the power boost is applied only where needed rather than uniformly across the entire cell.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the downlink transmission power parameter based on user location and traffic load conditions. The network node controller modifies the downlink transmission power level assigned to cell edge users versus cell center users, enabling flexible control over coverage extension and interference management. This parameter adjustment is adapted according to current traffic load and user distribution patterns.
2Productivity
If CRE value is increased to serve more users, then capacity of micro access node is improved, but it becomes challenging to set appropriate CRE value for different network configurations and traffic loads
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the downlink transmission power configuration adaptive and dynamic rather than static. The network node controller continuously monitors traffic load conditions and user distribution, then adjusts the downlink transmission power levels for different user groups accordingly. This dynamic adjustment enables the system to adapt to varying network configurations and traffic loads automatically, eliminating the need for manual CRE value tuning for different scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the network node controller receives information about current traffic load, user locations, and service quality metrics. Based on this feedback, the controller adjusts the downlink transmission power levels for cell edge and cell center users to optimize capacity while maintaining appropriate adaptation to different network conditions. The feedback loop enables automatic adjustment without requiring manual intervention for different traffic scenarios.
3Area of stationary object
If macro access node EIRP is much higher than micro access node EIRP, then macro access node coverage is improved, but micro access node cannot serve sufficient fraction of overall traffic demand
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by implementing spatially differentiated downlink transmission power levels within the macro access node coverage area. Cell edge users, who are typically served by micro access nodes, are assigned a first downlink transmission power level that provides sufficient signal strength for reliable service. Cell center users served directly by the macro access node are assigned a second downlink transmission power level. This localized power differentiation enables micro access nodes to serve a sufficient fraction of traffic demand while the macro access node maintains its broad coverage area.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach allows for robust traffic distribution, reducing interference and enhancing network capacity by ensuring micro access nodes can effectively serve users, especially at high traffic loads, while maintaining high user throughput and quality of service.
Implementation Method 1
Each cell shaping beam may correspond to a respective transmission beam in which reference signals are transmitted so as to define cell shapes of the macro access node and enable user equipment to identify serving cells
Implementation Method 2
distributing the traffic between the macro access node and the micro access node by adjusting cell shaping beams of the macro access node as a function of the current traffic load
Data Source
AI summary
A mechanism for distributing traffic between a macro access node and a micro access node in a heterogeneous network is described. The method, performed by a network node controller, comprises obtaining information of current traffic load in the heterogeneous network. The method further comprises distributing the traffic between the macro access node and the micro access node by adjusting cell shaping beams of the macro access node as a function of the current traffic load.